Today’s Current Affairs
03rd April 2023 Current Affairs are incorporated with the important news that made the current affairs headlines for banking, UPSC or other competitive exams. Daily Current Affairs is the complete bag of important news that is held all day long. One should have complete knowledge about banking terms, current affairs news, etc. So, here is the Top News of the Day for 3rd March 2023 to help you prepare the Latest Current Affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.
Here is the Current Affairs 03rd April 2023 covering the following news headlines: MF Hydra, post-Brexit Britain, Eravikulam National Park, SLINEX-2023, India Post Payments Bank, Vande Bharat Express.
National News
1. PM Modi flags off Bhopal-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express at Rani Kamlapati Railway Station
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vande Bharat Express train service between Rani Kamlapati Railway Station in Madhya Pradesh and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi. The train will cover a distance of 701 kilometres in 7 hours and 30 minutes and will operate on all days except. It will stop at Veerangana Laxmibai Jhansi, Gwalior, and Agra.
International News
2. ‘MF Hydra’: World’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry gets operational
Norwegian company Norled has successfully launched the world’s first ferry that runs on liquid hydrogen. The vessel, called MF Hydra, is a hybrid that uses both batteries and liquid hydrogen fuel cells. It underwent sea trials for two weeks after initial testing at Hjelmeland quay earlier this year. The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has given final approval for the ferry to operate. This milestone achievement is a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry, as hydrogen fuel cells produce only clean water as a byproduct.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- Norway Capital: Oslo;
- Norway Currency: Norwegian Krone;
- Norway King: Harald V of Norway.
3. Britain forges biggest trading deal since Brexit, set to join trans-Pacific pact
In a significant development for post-Brexit Britain, the UK has reached its largest trade deal yet. The country is set to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which covers a market of around 500 million people with a combined GDP of £9tn. The CPTPP agreement was signed by 11 countries, including Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Australia, and came into force in December 2018. The UK’s entry into the agreement marks a major milestone for the country’s global trading ambitions and reinforces the government’s commitment to building trade partnerships outside of Europe.
4. Georgia Assembly passes resolution condemning Hinduphobia
Georgia Assembly has passed a resolution that condemns Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu bigotry, making it the first state in America to take such legislative action. The resolution highlights that Hinduism is a diverse religion with over 1.2 billion adherents worldwide, and it promotes values of acceptance, mutual respect, and peace. The resolution recognizes the contributions of the American-Hindu community in various fields, such as science, medicine, engineering, and hospitality. Additionally, the resolution acknowledges the contributions of yoga, meditation, ayurveda, music, and art, which have enriched American culture.
State News
5. In a first, Eravikulam National Park gets a fernarium
Eravikulam National Park in Munnar, Kerala, which is home to the Nilgiri tahr, now features a new attraction: a fernarium located within the park. This is the first instance of a fern collection being established in the hill station, according to officials. The fern park is located close to the orchidarium and will be accessible to the public starting from April 20th. The Eravikulam National Park is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, and the introduction of the fernarium is a step towards educating visitors about the park’s biodiversity. Ferns belong to the Epiphytic family and are known to grow naturally in a soilless environment. These plants absorb water and nutrients by leaching them from trees. A significant number of ferns can be found growing on the trees within the park.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- Chief of Naval Staff: Admiral R Hari Kumar;
- Indian Navy Founded: 26 January 1950;
- Indian Navy headquarters: New Delhi.
6. Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh is new Vice-Chief of Navy
On April 2nd, Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh assumed the position of Vice-Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS) as part of a series of high-level changes in the Indian Navy. Vice Admiral Singh graduated from the National Defence Academy in Pune and joined the Indian Navy’s executive branch in 1986. Over his 37-year career, he has served on various types of ships and held many leadership roles, including Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (CSNCO), Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Fleet, Commandant Naval War College, and Controller Personnel Services. Prior to his current position as VCNS, he was Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations). In recognition of his distinguished service, he was awarded the Nao Sena Medal in 2009 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2020.
7. India, Malaysia can now trade in Indian rupee
The Ministry of External Affairs declared that trade between India and Malaysia can now be conducted using the Indian Rupee (INR) as a mode of settlement, in addition to other currencies. This announcement follows the launch of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 by the Ministry of Commerce the day before, which reaffirmed the government’s determination to establish the rupee as a global currency. This move is expected to boost bilateral trade between the two countries and reduce transaction costs for businesses.
8. India Post Payments Bank launches WhatsApp Banking Services
India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) launched its WhatsApp Banking Services in New Delhi, allowing customers to conveniently access banking services on their mobile phones. The new WhatsApp Banking channel will enable customers to connect with the bank on WhatsApp and access a range of services, including requesting doorstep services, finding the nearest Post Office, and more.
9. 10th Indian – Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime exercise SLINEX-2023 begins
The 10th annual SLINEX-2023 bilateral maritime exercise between India and Sri Lanka has commenced in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The exercise is divided into two phases, the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase, each lasting three days. The Indian Navy is represented by INS Kiltan and INS Savitri, while the Sri Lanka Navy is represented by SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Samudura. In addition, the exercise also includes participation from the Indian Navy’s Chetak helicopter and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, as well as Sri Lanka Air Force’s Dornier and BEL 412 helicopters. The exercise will also feature the Special Forces of both navies working together.
10. GST revenue collection increases 13% to Rs 1.60 lakh crore in March 2023
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue collection for March 2023 has increased by 13% to Rs 1.60 lakh crore, according to data released by the Ministry of Finance. This marks the third consecutive month of increase in GST collections and is a positive sign for India’s economy, which has been grappling with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in GST collections can be attributed to a number of factors, including the revival of economic activity and the government’s efforts to improve tax compliance. The government has introduced a range of measures to encourage businesses to comply with GST regulations, including the introduction of a simplified tax filing system and the use of technology to streamline the tax collection process.
11. India’s unemployment rate rises to 3-month high of 7.8% in March 2023
India’s unemployment rate has risen to a three-month high of 7.8% in March 2023, according to the latest data released by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). This marks an increase from the 7.2% unemployment rate recorded in February and represents a setback for the country’s efforts to revive its economy in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in unemployment is likely to be a cause for concern for policymakers, who have been working to stimulate economic growth and create new jobs in the wake of the pandemic. The government has introduced a range of measures to support businesses and encourage job creation, including the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the National Employment Policy.
12. Rural Development Ministry introduces Captive Employer scheme for rural youth
The Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Giriraj Singh, has launched an innovative Captive Employer initiative under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) in New Delhi. This program aims to train rural poor youth and provide employment opportunities through 19 captive employers who will offer training in different sectors, including hospitality, textiles, retail, and telecommunications. More than 31,000 rural youth are expected to receive training and employment opportunities through this scheme.
13. Russian superstar Daniil Medvedev Wins Maiden Miami Opens Title 2023
Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev claimed his fourth title of the year by defeating Jannik Sinner in a closely-contested final match in Miami Opens 2023. Medvedev, who was once the top-ranked player in the world, has now won 24 out of his last 25 matches, including his latest victory at the prestigious Miami Open. The win marked his first-ever title win at the Miami Open. Medvedev clinched his fifth Masters 1000 title and 19th title overall by beating Sinner, who has also been in impressive form this season, with a scoreline of 7-5, 6-3. Interestingly, Medvedev has won each of his 19 titles in different tournaments. This was also his first Masters 1000 title since winning in Toronto back in 2021.
14. F1 race results: Max Verstappen wins wild Australian GP
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has claimed his first Australian Grand Prix 2023. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who drove superbly in his Mercedes, finished second, while Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso filled third spot on the podium. Verstappen had appeared to be coasting to victory with an eight-second lead when debris from Kevin Magnussen’s Haas forced the second of three red flags issued in the race with three laps remaining.
15. ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission RLV LEX
ISRO has accomplished the Reusable Launch Vehicle Autonomous Landing Mission (RLV LEX) at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga, Karnataka. A Chinook helicopter of the Indian Air Force carried the RLV as an underslung load and flew it to an altitude of 4.5 km. Once the predetermined pillbox parameters were reached, the RLV was autonomously released mid-air, 4.6 km downrange. The RLV then successfully executed approach and landing maneuvers using the Integrated Navigation, Guidance & control system and autonomously landed on the ATR air strip. This achievement marks the successful autonomous landing of a space vehicle by ISRO.
Important Takeaways for All Competitive Exams:
- ISRO Chairman: S. Somanath;
- ISRO foundation Date: 15th August, 1969;
- ISRO Founder: Dr. Vikram Sarabhai.
16. Stunning Images of Earth from Space by ISRO
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled spectacular images of the Earth taken by its Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-06), also known as Oceansat-3. The satellite used its Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) to capture the images, which reveal every continent and were taken between February 1 and 15, 2023. The stunning pictures were created by merging 2,939 images and processing 300 GB of data to produce a mosaic with a spatial resolution of 1 km. Different continents are visible in different colours due to variations in wavelengths.
17. A book titled “Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire” by Nandini Das
“Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire” is a book written by Nandini Das, a professor of English Literature at the University of Liverpool. The book explores the complex relationship between England and Mughal India in the early modern period, focusing on the cultural and literary exchanges that took place between these two worlds.
18. Prevention of Blindness Week 2023: April 1-7
The Government of India organises the Prevention of Blindness Week from April 1-7 every year to raise awareness about the causes and prevention of blindness. The annual event aims to support individuals with visual impairments, and to promote access to eye care services. The Government of India organises several events to highlight many factors that cause blindness. Several departments work towards bringing inclusivity to the blind, and their disability. The week-long campaign aims to raise awareness about the causes of blindness, its prevention, and treatment. Various organizations, including government and non-governmental organizations, conduct activities such as eye camps, free eye checkups, and awareness programs during the week.
19. World Autism Awareness Day 2023 observed on 2nd April
World Autism Awareness Day: Autism Speaks, an organization that advocates for individuals with autism, observes World Autism Month every April, starting with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. This year marks the 16th anniversary of the day, which is recognized by the United Nations and aims to promote awareness and advocacy for the rights of people with autism. Autism is a condition that usually begins during childhood and can continue into adulthood. Every year, a different topic is used to mark World Autism Awareness Day. World Autism Awareness Day 2023’s topic this year is “Contribution of Autistic Individuals at Home, at Work, in the Arts, and Policymaking.”
20. Former cricketer Salim Durani passes away at the age of 88
Salim Durani, a former Indian cricketer known for his striking looks, humor, and ability to hit powerful sixes, passed away at the age of 88. Salim Durani, who was originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, was a talented cricketer known for his explosive batting and left-arm orthodox bowling. He played in 29 Tests for India and played a significant role in India’s 2-0 victory over England in a five-match Test series in 1961-62. Durani was especially influential in India’s victories at Calcutta and Madras, where he took eight and 10 wickets, respectively. He was renowned for his ability to hit the ball out of the park and was considered an all-rounder due to his talent with both bat and ball.
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